Stybar solos to victory in Dunkerque

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Former cyclo-cross world champion Zdenek Stybar only started his road season this week, but he has already found success in stage four of the 4 Jours de Dunkerque. The Czech rider attacked in the final kilometers and opened up a convincing gap on the cobbled climb to the line in Cassel.

Stybar came across the line 10 seconds ahead of Carlos Betancur (Acqua & Sapone) while Thomas Voeckler (Europcar) led home the chasing group 15 seconds behind the winner. Jimmy Engoulvent (Saur Sojasun) finished 50 seconds behind but still holds the race lead, now by 43 seconds over Stybar.

"I am super happy about this victory," Stybar said. "It was not an easy stage, but this morning I really focused to try to do something good."

Stybar had a somewhat disappointing cyclo-cross season, and had to face tough decisions on how much energy he can devote to the winter discipline after suffering the fatigue of a full road season and then a full 'cross stint.

One year on from his debut on the road scene with Quickstep in Dunkirk, Stybar now has his first major victory, which is a big morale boost for him and confirmation that his decision to take focus away from 'cross was correct. "It is super for me, but really the most important win for me too. I proved I can win also on the road. A lot of people said it wasn't possible, and now I showed it was possible."

"When I chose to ride on the road bike I only listened to my heart and it was the right thing to do. Now I am really, really happy. When I crossed the finish line I couldn't believe I won the race. I was thinking maybe someone was in front of me. I had to ask if I won or not but when I realized I won, I was over the moon. It was one of best moments in my life."

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